The CRUX: True Survival Stories
Kaycee McIntosh, Julie Henningsen, Bleav
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Top 10 The CRUX: True Survival Stories Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best The CRUX: True Survival Stories episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to The CRUX: True Survival Stories for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite The CRUX: True Survival Stories episode by adding your comments to the episode page.
When Joy Turned to Horror: Inside Indiana's Halloween Nightmare | E132
The CRUX: True Survival Stories
10/31/24 • 31 min
In this episode of The Crux True Survival Stories, hosts Julie Henningsen and Kaycee McIntosh explore the tragic Halloween Night Coliseum Explosion in Indianapolis, Indiana, on October 31, 1963. During an ice show at the Indiana State Fair Coliseum, an explosion caused by a propane gas buildup led to 74 fatalities and 384 injuries. The episode features vivid survivor accounts, historical context, and dramatic rescue efforts led by ice skaters and fire captain Richard Wells, including heroic acts by John Whitaker, Margaret Cook, Barbara Reeves, and Margaret Whitlow. Themes of resilience, community support, and lasting impacts on survivors, supported by insights from the Indiana Historical Society, are examined. The hosts emphasize the importance of safety during Halloween, invite listeners to share their survival stories, and hint at future episodes.
00:00 Introduction to The Crux True Survival Stories
01:03 Setting the Scene: Halloween Night 1963
02:18 The Explosion: Halloween Night Coliseum Disaster
04:42 Immediate Aftermath: Chaos and Darkness
11:36 Rescue Efforts: Heroes on Ice
14:18 Survivor Stories: Anderson Sisters and More
17:27 Survivor Accounts and Immediate Aftermath
19:15 The Pugsley Family's Narrow Escape
21:24 Community Response and Heroic Efforts
24:58 Long-term Impact and PTSD
26:11 Coliseum Survivors Association and Legacy
30:25 Conclusion and Call to Action
Resources:
- WRTV Indianapolis - "'It was a good place': Survivor reflects on Coliseum explosion 20 years later"
Link: https://www.wrtv.com/lifestyle/history/1983-it-was-a-good-place-survivor-reflects-on-coliseum-explosion-20-years-later - Wikipedia - "1963 Indiana State Fairgrounds Coliseum gas explosion"
Link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1963_Indiana_State_Fairgrounds_Coliseum_gas_explosion - Indianapolis Star - RetroIndy: "Coliseum explosion"
Link: https://www.indystar.com/story/news/history/retroindy/2014/01/15/coliseum-explosion/4495037/ - History.com - "This Day in History: Indiana State Fairgrounds Coliseum explosion"
Link: https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/indiana-state-fairgrounds-coliseum-explosion
Email us! [email protected]
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thecruxpodcast/
Get schooled by Julie in outdoor wilderness medicine! https://www.headwatersfieldmedicine.com/
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Lost and Barefoot: Surviving a Month in the Cascades | E127
The CRUX: True Survival Stories
09/30/24 • 39 min
In this episode of Crux True Survival Stories, hosts Kaycee McIntosh and Julie Henningsen dive into the gripping tale of Robert Schock, a 39-year-old drifter who vanished during a day run in the North Cascades with his dog. Schock defied the odds, surviving nearly a month in the wild with no shoes and minimal supplies before being miraculously found by trail crew members.
The episode explores the treacherous terrain of the North Cascades, known for its high disappearance rates, and examines the psychological and physical toll survival takes in such hostile environments. Other chilling stories of lost hikers, like Rachel Lakoduck and Samantha Sayers, are also discussed, highlighting the unforgiving and unpredictable nature of the wilderness. The hosts emphasize the vital importance of preparation, proper equipment, and awareness for anyone venturing into remote areas.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:23 The Story of Robert Schock
01:11 Miraculous Rescue and Survival
02:24 The Treacherous Terrain of the North Cascades
03:13 The Dangerous Beauty of the North Cascades
05:40 Robert Schock’s Fateful Journey
08:17 Lost and Battling for Survival
14:00 The Search and Final Moments
18:40 A Mother's Reflection
18:52 The Trail Crew’s Heroic Effort
19:32 Survival Strategies and Key Lessons
20:29 Rescue and Recovery
22:50 Robert’s Future and Reflections
24:03 The Dark Reality of Wilderness Disappearances
27:33 The Case of Rachel Lackaduck
30:52 The Search for Samantha Sayers
35:14 Key Lessons from the Wilderness
36:11 Essential Survival Gear and Preparation
38:37 Closing and Listener Engagement
References:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_Cascades_National_Park
https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/missing-persons-by-state#google_vignette
https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/chilliwack-river
https://nypost.com/2020/07/04/why-hundreds-of-people-vanish-into-the-american-wilderness/
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/national-park-highest-death-rate-country-rcna68317
Email us! [email protected]
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thecruxpodcast/
Get schooled by Julie in outdoor wilderness medicine! https://www.headwatersfieldmedicine.com/
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Attack of the Warthog: When a Pet Warthog Fights Back, and Other Exotic Animal Encounters | E129
The CRUX: True Survival Stories
10/14/24 • 35 min
In this episode of 'The Crux True Survival Stories,' hosts Kaycee McIntosh and Julie Henningsen delve into the riveting story of Austin Riley, a ranch hand in Texas Hill Country who narrowly survived a vicious attack from his pet warthog, Waylon Jennings. Raised on a ranch with a variety of exotic animals, Austin faced a life-threatening ordeal when his beloved 250-pound warthog turned on him unexpectedly. The hosts explore Austin's unique bond with animals, particularly Waylon, and the subsequent tragic incident that raises questions about human-animal relationships and the risks of keeping exotic pets. The episode also reflects on other harrowing stories of exotic pet attacks, shedding light on the unpredictable nature of wild animals and highlighting the importance of responsible pet ownership.
00:00 Introduction to The Crux True Survival Stories
00:18 A Harrowing Tale of Survival Begins
01:03 Meet Austin Riley and His Beloved Warthog
02:21 Understanding Warthogs
03:49 Austin's Unique Upbringing
06:29 The Bond Between Austin and Waylon
09:33 The Brutal Attack
11:11 Austin's Fight for Survival
18:17 Austin's Road to Recovery
18:40 The Heartbreaking Decision
19:02 Reflecting on Exotic Pets
19:25 The Fable of the Farmer and the Snake
20:47 Shocking Exotic Pet Statistics
24:52 Travis the Chimpanzee Incident
28:36 The Tragic Case of Kelly Waltz
31:07 Gerald Rushton's Fatal Encounter
33:35 Concluding Thoughts on Exotic Pets
34:14 Final Words and Listener Engagement
References
https://factanimal.com/warthog/
https://www.texasmonthly.com/news-politics/warthog-attack-texas-exotics/
https://www.livescience.com/58337-warthog-facts.html
https://allthatsinteresting.com/charla-nash
https://www.poconorecord.com/story/news/2009/10/06/saylorsburg-woman-kept-bear-who/51843642007/
Email us! [email protected]
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thecruxpodcast/
Get schooled by Julie in outdoor wilderness medicine! https://www.headwatersfieldmedicine.com/
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The Venomous Snake that Fell from the Sky | E131
The CRUX: True Survival Stories
10/28/24 • 22 min
In this episode of the Crux True Survival Stories podcast, hosts Kaycee McIntosh and Julie Henningsen recount the extraordinary true story of Peggy Jones in Silsbee, Texas. While mowing her lawn, Peggy experienced a terrifying ordeal when a venomous snake dropped from the sky, latched onto her arm, and was soon followed by an aggressive hawk attempting to reclaim its prey. The harrowing encounter left Peggy with severe injuries and a battle for survival in the middle of her expansive property. This episode explores the science behind phenomena like 'animal rain,' the potential dangers of Texas's venomous snakes, and offers vital safety tips. Peggy's resilience and humor, despite her traumatic experience, shine through, making this a truly inspiring listen.
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:20 A Snake Falls from the Sky
00:53 Peggy's Terrifying Encounter
03:41 The Unexpected Attack
09:16 The Hawk Joins the Chaos
10:34 Eagle Encounter: A Close Call
11:09 The Hawk and the Snake: A Battle in the Sky
12:32 Animal Rain: Strange Phenomena from Above
14:34 The Science Behind Animal Rain
17:09 Peggy's Ordeal: A Terrifying Encounter
20:01 Survival Tips and Peggy's Resilience
21:17 Conclusion: Life's Unexpected Challenges
Sources for this episode:
- "When a Snake Fell from the Sky" - Reader's Digest, Derek Burnett
- "Texas woman attacked by snake dropped by hawk while mowing lawn" - CNN https://www.cnn.com/2023/08/11/us/texas-woman-snake-hawk-attack-wellness/index.html
- "Woman mowing lawn attacked by falling snake, swooping hawk in 'utterly chaotic' encounter" - USA Today https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2023/08/11/texas-woman-attacked-by-snake-hawk-while-mowing/70575009007/
- "Snakes in Texas" - Texas Parks and Wildlife https://tpwd.texas.gov/education/resources/texas-junior-naturalists/snakes-in-texas
- "Snake Safety & Prevention" - Texas Department of State Health Services https://www.dshs.texas.gov/safety-prevention/snake-safety-prevention
For more information about animal rain phenomena:
- BBC Earth article on "Animal Rain" phenomena https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20150327-the-mystery-of-raining-animals
For snake safety and identification in Texas:
- Texas Snakes & More https://www.texassnakes.net/
- Email us! [email protected] Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thecruxpodcast/ Get schooled by Julie in outdoor wilderness medicine! https://www.headwatersfieldmedicine.com/
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Escape from Hell: One Photographer's Fight to Survive Mount St. Helens | E123
The CRUX: True Survival Stories
09/02/24 • 38 min
In this episode of Crux True Survival Stories, hosts Kaycee McIntosh and Julie Henningsen recount the harrowing experiences of photographers Robert Landsburg and Reid Blackburn during the catastrophic eruption of Mount St. Helens on May 18th, 1980. They explore the immense power of the volcano and its impact on both human lives and the natural landscape. The episode also highlights David Crockett’s incredible survival story, emphasizing quick thinking and resilience amidst chaos. With heartfelt shoutouts and fascinating insights, this episode is a gripping exploration of nature's fury and human courage.
00:00 Introduction and Greetings
00:38 Special Shoutout to Teva
01:24 Recap of Mount St. Helens Eruption
04:15 Impact on Wildlife
05:00 Photographers at Mount St. Helens
05:38 Robert Landsberg's Final Moments
13:57 Reed Blackburn's Story
17:21 David Crockett's Survival
18:17 David Crockett's Intuition
18:36 The Morning of the Eruption
20:49 David's Harrowing Escape
22:04 Reflections on Intuition
24:56 The Eruption's Aftermath
30:14 A Miraculous Rescue
33:46 Lessons from Survival
36:37 Podcast Outro and Next Episode Teaser
Email us! [email protected]
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thecruxpodcast/
Get schooled by Julie in outdoor wilderness medicine! https://www.headwatersfieldmedicine.com/
Further reading:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reid_Blackburn
https://thatoregonlife.com/2022/05/mt-st-helens-eruption-images/
https://vintagenewsdaily.com/photographers-brave-final-shots-of-the-1980-mount-st-helens-eruption/1 Listener
Helene's Path: 500 Miles of Destruction | E133
The CRUX: True Survival Stories
11/04/24 • 27 min
The Crux True Survival Stories, hosted by Kaycee McIntosh and Julie Henningsen, delves into the harrowing accounts of survival and devastation brought by Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton. The episode explores the widespread impact of these storms, sharing reports of record-breaking rainfall, unprecedented tornado outbreaks, and intense flooding. Listeners hear tales of heroism from ordinary people who stepped up in times of crisis and recount the emotional and physical toll on affected communities. The episode also highlights the long-term consequences of these natural disasters, urging preparedness and support for those who have lost homes and loved ones.
00:00 Introduction and Hosts
00:36 Hurricane Milton's Recent Impact
02:12 Hurricane Helene: The Original Story
04:30 The Devastation of Hurricane Helene
05:23 Heart-Wrenching Tales of Survival
07:32 Community Resilience and Heroic Acts
09:14 A Wedding Amidst the Chaos
14:21 Another Tale of Survival: Angelina's Story
15:25 Flooded Car Panic
16:04 Angelina's Miraculous Rescue
17:44 Lifeguard and Mountain Rescues
18:36 Hurricane Helene's Impact on North Carolina
19:18 The Zara Family's Harrowing Experience
20:44 The Struggle to Rebuild Without Insurance
22:37 Tragic Stories of Kim and Rod Ashby
23:54 Stephen Cloyd's Desperate Texts
25:48 Reflecting on the True Cost of Disasters
26:27 Closing Remarks and Call to Action
Email us! [email protected]
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thecruxpodcast/
Get schooled by Julie in outdoor wilderness medicine! https://www.headwatersfieldmedicine.com/
Based on the provided links, here's a formal reference list for the Hurricane Helene and Milton coverage, the last on the list is the link where you can support victims:
News Articles:
- Yahoo News (2024). "Where did Hurricane Helene make landfall?"
https://news.yahoo.com/news/where-did-hurricane-helene-landfall-044235283.html - BBC News (2024). "Hurricane Helene: Devastating impact across southeastern United States"
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c1k70rnrp4xo - CNN (2024). "How Helene devastated western North Carolina"
https://www.cnn.com/2024/10/06/us/how-helene-devastated-western-north-carolina/index.html - MSN News (2024). "Georgia man shares story of survival in North Carolina after Hurricane Helene"
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/georgia-man-shares-story-of-survival-in-north-carolina-after-hurricane-helene-increased-my-faith-in-god/ar-AA1rIL8J - Yahoo News (2024). "North Carolina family thankful to be alive"
https://www.yahoo.com/news/north-carolina-family-thankful-alive-231002400.html - MSN News (2024). "'I couldn't watch her die': Wake County man jumps into river to rescue woman in Ashe County"
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/crime/i-couldnt-watch-her-die-wake-county-man-jumps-into-river-to-rescue-woman-in-ashe-county/ar-AA1rwC3s - The American Retiree (2024). "Heroic rescue amid Helene's fury: Meteorologist saves Atlanta woman from rising floodwaters"
https://theamericanretiree.com/heroic-rescue-amid-helenes-fury-meteorologist-saves-atlanta-woman-from-rising-floodwaters/
CNN Coverage:
8. CNN (2024). "Helene recovery Friday"
https://www.cnn.com/2024/10/04/us/helene-recovery-friday/index.html
- CNN (2024). "Hurricane Helene live updates: Florida, North Carolina, Georgia"
https://www.cnn.com/weather/live-news/hurricane-helene-florida-north-carolina-georgia-09-30-24 - CNN (2024). "Georgia flooding rescue van Dillen"
https://www.cnn.com/2024/09/27/us/georgia-flooding-rescue-van-dillen
Resources for Support:<...
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A 60-Foot Fall, 4 Days Alone: Amy Racina's Incredible Survival in the Sierra Nevadas | E130
The CRUX: True Survival Stories
10/21/24 • 32 min
Hosts Julie Henningsen and Kaycee McIntosh, dive into Amy Racina's extraordinary survival story in the Sierra Nevada mountains in 2003. Amy's solo adventure in Kings Canyon National Park takes a harrowing turn when she falls 60 feet into a remote valley. Despite severe injuries, she survives for four days, using her resourcefulness and resilience until a rescue team, alerted by a passerby with hearing impairment, saves her. The episode delves into Amy's inspiring recovery and return to hiking, the importance of survival tools like personal locator beacons, and Amy's efforts to spread awareness through her book and presentations. Essential safety tips and budget-friendly survival tools are also discussed, emphasizing preparation and knowledge for wilderness adventures.
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:23 Setting the Scene: Sierra Nevada Mountains
01:11 Amy Racina's Background and Preparation
05:10 The Incident: A Fall in Tehippity Valley
09:49 Survival Instincts Kick In
13:21 Mental and Physical Struggles
15:55 Imagining the Struggle
16:54 A Miracle Rescue
17:59 Emotional Reunion
19:14 Complex Rescue Operation
20:41 Race Against Time
23:06 Amy's Recovery Journey
24:03 Back to the Wilderness
27:07 Personal Locator Beacons
30:30 Amy's Story in the Spotlight
31:49 Final Thoughts and Call to Action
Email us! [email protected], and if you get the chance, please leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform.
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thecruxpodcast/
Get schooled by Julie in outdoor wilderness medicine! https://www.headwatersfieldmedicine.com/
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Desert Tragedy: The Untold WWII Sahara Survival Story | E115
The CRUX: True Survival Stories
07/08/24 • 52 min
In this episode of The Crux: True Survival Stories, hosts Kaycee McIntosh and Julie Henningsen recount the harrowing tale of the South African aircrew during World War II. In May 1942, navigational errors led to a forced desert landing near the Kufra oasis in Libya, resulting in a tragic fight for survival in the unforgiving Sahara. Of the 12 crew members, only one survived the harsh conditions. The episode delves into the crew's desperate attempts to find their way back, their unfortunate mistakes, and the relentless sandstorm that sealed their fate, while also highlighting the critical importance of preparation and experienced navigation in survival scenarios.
00:00 Introduction and Today's Story Overview
00:52 Setting the Scene: The Tragedy at Kufra
02:09 Historical Context: World War II and North Africa
05:48 Mission Briefing and Preparations
12:43 Navigational Challenges and Initial Errors
16:16 Stranded in the Desert: The Struggle Begins
27:11 Evaporative Cooling and Survival Tactics
27:38 Major de Wet's Desperate Search
27:57 Sandstorms and Stranded Men
28:33 Grim Reality Unfolds
30:58 Major de Wet's Diary Entries
32:21 Final Rescue Efforts
41:59 Aftermath and Inquiry
47:37 Reflections and Lessons Learned
51:11 Podcast Wrap-Up and Announcements
https://www.instagram.com/thecruxpodcast/
Email: [email protected]
Get schooled by Julie in outdoor wilderness medicine! https://www.headwatersfieldmedicine.com/
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Surviving the Wild: Shane Burke's Battle with a Grizzly in the Tetons | E125
The CRUX: True Survival Stories
09/16/24 • 43 min
In this gripping episode of Crux True Survival Stories, hosts Kaycee McIntosh and Julie Henningsen sit down with Shane Burke, who recounts his terrifying encounter with a grizzly bear in the Tetons. Shane, an avid nature enthusiast and photographer, describes how his search for a great gray owl turned into a life-threatening ordeal. Despite the adrenaline and chaos, Shane's survival was a result of quick thinking, bear spray, and the support of his EMT-trained wife, Chloe. Shane's story is not just about the attack but also about overcoming immense personal challenges and finding solace in photography. This episode is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of preparedness in the wild.
00:00 Introduction to True Survival Stories
00:43 Meet Shane Burke: A Life of Resilience
01:54 Shane's Love for the Outdoors
02:27 The Honeymoon Adventure
03:24 The Day of the Bear Attack
05:59 The Grizzly Bear Encounter
08:55 Surviving the Attack
16:25 The Rescue Operation
22:57 Moment of Relief and Rescue
23:23 Concerns and First Aid
25:21 Evacuation and Hospitalization
27:17 Bear Spray Aftermath
29:36 Reflections and Recovery
30:58 Lessons and Advocacy
42:28 Conclusion and Gratitude
Email us! [email protected]
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thecruxpodcast/
Get schooled by Julie in outdoor wilderness medicine! https://www.headwatersfieldmedicine.com/
Shayne's Instagram https://www.instagram.com/n0beefstew4u/1 Listener
They Should've DIED From These Snake Bites... But Somehow Survived! | E134
The CRUX: True Survival Stories
11/11/24 • 37 min
In this episode of the Crux True Survival Story Podcast, hosts Julie Henningsen and Kaycee McIntosh delve into gripping recounts of snakebite survival stories. Julie takes us on a journey from Montana's fearsome wilderness to the perilous Australian outback, narrating extraordinary tales of people managing to survive venomous snake encounters. Highlights include the terrifying experiences of a man bitten by a rattle-less rattlesnake, a teenager's close call with the world's most venomous snake, a shocking incident at a bowling club, and a courageous Golden Retriever's encounter with a rattlesnake. Additionally, we explore the astounding lives of individuals who have turned snake venom immunity into a lifelong mission. These stories underscore the unpredictability of nature and the sheer resilience of both humans and animals. Tune in for a rollercoaster of emotions as we unravel these true survival battles.
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:16 Snakebite Survival Stories
01:50 Jason Hogue's Rattlesnake Encounter
08:46 The Most Venomous Snake in the World
13:59 A Deadly Encounter at the Bowling Club
18:09 Bill Haast: The Snake Obsessed Man
18:40 Bill Haast's Venomous Journey
18:57 The Serpentarium: A Venomous Spectacle
19:36 Self-Immunization: Bill's Unique Approach
20:36 A Walking Anti-Venom Factory
22:12 Tim Freed: Following in Bill's Footsteps
25:37 Dusty the Golden Retriever's Rattlesnake Encounter
30:12 Snakebite Statistics and Treatment
35:19 Concluding Thoughts and Call to Action
Web References
Official Health & Safety Resources
- World Health Organization Snake Bites Information:
https://www.who.int/health-topics/snakebite - CDC Snake Bite Prevention & Treatment:
https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/snakes/
News Coverage
- The Montana Standard - Original source for Bill Childrey's story (local Montana newspaper):
https://mtstandard.com/ - NBC Montana - Original coverage of Jason Hauge incident:
https://nbcmontana.com/
(Note: Original 2013 article may no longer be available due to age)
Research & Educational Resources
- University of Adelaide Toxicology Resources:
https://www.adelaide.edu.au/
(For taipan venom information)
Additional Snake Safety Resources
- American Association of Poison Control Centers:
https://www.aapcc.org/ - National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Snake Safety:
https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/snakes/
For the most current and accurate information about snake safety and bite prevention, please consult official health organizations like WHO, CDC, or your local poison control center.
Email us! [email protected]
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thecruxpodcast/
Get schooled by Julie in outdoor wilderness medicine! https://www.headwatersfieldmedicine.com/
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FAQ
How many episodes does The CRUX: True Survival Stories have?
The CRUX: True Survival Stories currently has 137 episodes available.
What topics does The CRUX: True Survival Stories cover?
The podcast is about Society & Culture, Documentary and Podcasts.
What is the most popular episode on The CRUX: True Survival Stories?
The episode title 'A 60-Foot Fall, 4 Days Alone: Amy Racina's Incredible Survival in the Sierra Nevadas | E130' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on The CRUX: True Survival Stories?
The average episode length on The CRUX: True Survival Stories is 31 minutes.
How often are episodes of The CRUX: True Survival Stories released?
Episodes of The CRUX: True Survival Stories are typically released every 7 days.
When was the first episode of The CRUX: True Survival Stories?
The first episode of The CRUX: True Survival Stories was released on Feb 19, 2021.
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